Handloads: A Heavy-Hitting 12 Gauge

by
posted on December 19, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
hand12ga.jpg

virtual “pumpkin,” this heavy-hitting 12-ga. load is composed of a 2" Cheddite hull with a Cheddite 209 primer and 26 grs. of Hi-Skor 800-X propellant. That combination launches the 550-gr., 0.715"-wide, hardened lead round ball from a 2558" barrel at 1252 f.p.s., resulting in 1,914 ft.-lbs. of energy. That’s more than many full-house .454 Casull loads. Even from a smoothbore shotgun, accuracy is surprisingly good—measuring 3.16" for 25 shots at 20 yds. Due to its short overall length, which is approximately 1 3/4" when loaded, you’re afforded additional magazine capacity. The end result is a load that’s perfect for protection in the home and around camp, as well as for close-in big-game hunting.

Latest

Guns Ai F
Guns Ai F

Does AI Pose a Threat to the 2nd Amendment?

Several recent studies highlighted AI's propensity to dispense anti-Second Amendment propaganda, and more alarmingly, AI also seems willing to sacrifice human lives to avoid being taken offline.

I Have This Old Gun: Winchester 1886 Saddle-Ring Carbine

As our country was celebrating its centennial 150 years ago, Oliver Winchester dominated the lever-action market with his Models 1866 and 1873 and was just introducing the Model 1876.

First Look: Gunsmoke Arsenal Tactical Cigar Protection

Looking for a smoke after smoking some targets? The Tactical Cigar Protection case from Gunsmoke Arsenal keeps your stogie secured until you're ready to relax.

Making a Match-Ready M1 Garand

For decades, fans of the M1 Garand have gone to Camp Perry to shoot the John C. Garand match, a test of their shooting skills and rifles. Here, one M1 Garand enthusiast prepares his rifle and ammo for the shoot.

Will the USPS Allow Handguns to Be Mailed?

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) on April 2, 2026, published a proposed rule that would permit the mailing of lawful handguns through the U.S. mail for the first time in nearly a century.

The Trijicon AccuPoint 1-8x24 mm: A Flexible Optic for Dangerous Game Hunting

Trijicon is probably best known for its military and law-enforcement optics, but the company is also serious about its commercial line of riflescopes designed for hunting.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.